A grand mal seizure, also known as a tonic-clonic seizure, is a type of seizure that affects the entire brain. It typically begins with a sudden loss of consciousness, followed by muscle stiffening (tonic phase) and then rhythmic jerking movements (clonic phase). These seizures can last from a few seconds to several minutes. During a grand mal seizure, the person may experience confusion or fatigue afterward, known as the postictal state. It is important to ensure the person's safety during the seizure by moving objects away and placing them on their side to help with breathing. Medical attention may be needed if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes.